Road Trip Etiquette

This weekend, I'll be enjoying a relaxing, non-waking-up-at-2am-for-baby-feeding weekend with some friends. It’ll be a guy’s weekend on the shore and I'm really looking forward to it. But before we get to sit down to enjoy Maryland’s finest steamed crabs, we have to all get there on time and as conveniently as possible. With 12 guys heading to one place from different areas of the city, things can get confusing really fast. To cut down on the number of cars, we’re dividing into several carpools. I for one, am more than happy to buddy-up for a good ol' fashioned road trip.

If you're considering taking a road trip, make sure you follow these 3 rules to have the best trip ever:

Tip #1: Be On Time

For starters, pick a designated time to go. My friends and I have known about this trip for nearly four months, and everyone has had time to take off work, arrange babysitting, clear it with their wives, etc. You don't want to show up to the meeting place an hour late because you had something else to take care of. As well, if people are coming to pick you up, don't start packing your bag when you hear the doorbell ring. Being on time and being considerate of others' time is only polite.

Tip #2: Split the Gas Money

Gas prices nowadays make a night out at the finest steak house seem like a Happy Meal at McDonald's. So when someone offers to drive, be respectful and pitch in for gas. There is no reason why someone should have to not only drive but also take on the gas bill as well. Even if they arrived to your house with a full tank, I always insist on contributing $10 or $20 towards gas money. And if they won't take it, leave it in their cup holder on the sly. You don't have to pay for the entire tank yourself, but you should make sure to do your part.

Tip #3: Don't Fall Asleep

When you are sharing the ride with someone, you must always remember to be a good passenger. They are not your chauffeur. Don't get me wrong, if you’re driving for many, many hours and you have to sleep, that’s fine. But don't bail on someone right away. Be helpful with directions, check their blind spots, and most importantly, just keep them company during the ride.